Q: What is Neurology?

A: Neurology is a medical specialty dealing with disorders of the nervous system. Specifically, it deals with the diagnosis and treatment of all categories of disease involving the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems, including their coverings, blood vessels, and all effector tissue, such as muscle.

Q:What is a Neurologist?

A: A neurologist is a physician who specializes in neurology, and is trained to investigate, or diagnose and treat neurological disorders such as the following:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Sleep Disorders

Headaches

Epilepsy

Migraines

Multiple Sclerosis

Pinched Nerves

Strokes

Alzheimer’s Disease

Seizures

Numbness

Peripheral Neuropathies

Movement Disorders

Parkinson’s Disease

Q: What happens during the exam?

A: During a neurological examination, the neurologist reviews the patient’s health history with special attention to the current condition. The patient then takes a neurological exam. Typically, the exam tests mental status, function of the cranial nerves (including vision), strength, coordination, reflexes and sensation. This information helps the neurologist determine if the problem exists in the nervous system and the clinical localization.

Localization of the pathology is the key process by which neurologists develop their differential diagnosis. Further tests may be needed to confirm a diagnosis and ultimately guide therapy and appropriate management. Many symptoms that may occur would involve: weakness, numbness, tingling, headaches, dizziness, and poor sleep.